Dandruff is an embarrassing scalp problem that affects nearly everyone at some time in their lives. At the first sign of flakey, dry skin, the most natural reaction is to panic, grab a hat and then to look for the most convenient solution for remedying the problem-fast!

While most causes for dandruff can simply be from a dry scalp, in more serious cases Dermatitis, Psoriasis or Eczema could be the culprit. Each condition shares similar symptoms.

What are the different types of dandruff?

Common Dandruff: White, dead skin cells on your scalp.
Dermatitis: Common skin inflammation that causes red, itchy, dry skin.
Psoriasis: Skin cells build up and cause scales with dry patches.
Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis: Red, dry itchy and irritated skin.

What causes dandruff?

Here are some common reasons why you may experiencing flaky itchy scalp.

Excessively dry or oily skin
Sensitivity to hair products
Not washing or shampooing enough
Yeast overgrowth
Food allergies or sensitivities
Environmental factors such as dry air or humidity, pollution, or cold weather
A medical condition or skin sensitivity such as Dermatitis, Psoriasis or Eczema

Regardless of the cause of the dandruff, there are steps you can take to help improve your scalp health and get rid of dandruff for good.

How to treat dandruff naturally?

Remove scalp buildup
Whether you choose to go to your stylist for a scalp treatment, or do one at home, scalp treatments are extremely beneficial to your scalp and hair health. They can help breakup and remove any buildup caused by old skin cells, layers of sebum or hair products. For an at-home scalp treatment, consider brushing your scalp with a scalp brush to shed excess dry skin then applying a hair oil mask. You can make one at home with a blend of coconut oil and a few drops of anti-fungal Tea Tree oil, leave on for 30 minutes then rinse and shampoo.
Massage your scalp
While we all look forward to getting our scalp massaged when we visit the hair salon, there is more to it than simple relaxation. Scalp massage is a huge component to overall scalp health as it helps to increase circulation to regenerate healthy, unclogged pores on your scalp. A regular at home scalp massage can also help to exfoliate and hydrate the scalp to keep it clean and healthy. The best time to massage your scalp is during the oil treatment or during a shampoo when the scalp is wet. Massage for at least 5 minutes with light to medium pressure by moving your fingers in small circles.
Wash your hair often
While shampooing everyday can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause irritation, skipping your regular shampooing routine when you have dandruff may make the dandruff worse. With dandruff on the scalp, it is important to shampoo frequently and rinse your hair thoroughly to remove the flakes and buildup of debris.
Use products that are free of chemicals
Using products that are free of chemicals will help keep your scalp and hair healthy. Unfortunately, many shampoos, conditioners and hair styling products are filled with sulfates, toxins, preservatives and artificial colors and fragrances. These can all lead to scalp irritation and sensitivities. Using clean products, where you can easily recognize the ingredients on the label, will help reduce scalp issues that are caused by product sensitivities.

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If you want to use a ready product rather than make your own, try our Isabella’s Clearly FREE anti dandruff hair mask. It gives your scalp a boost of anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial nutrients, to help eliminate scalp psoriasis, dermatitis and common dandruff. It also helps to restore moisture to keep your scalp healthy and balanced.

As you start your journey of trying to eliminate dandruff for good, remember that it’s a process that takes a little patience and maintenance. Follow the steps above and your scalp will be in great shape!